Britain's Gen Z crisis: 1 in 8 young people now NEET and facing bleak futures

Young people in Britain are facing growing challenges in the job market, with nearly one in eight aged 16 to 24 now classified as NEET—not in education, employment, or training. Official figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) show that 12.2% of this age group, around 812,000 individuals, fell into this category in 2023. Experts warn that being NEET in early adulthood sharply reduces future employment prospects.

Former Labour minister Alan Milburn is examining the reasons behind the record levels of youth unemployment and inactivity. Rising costs, such as higher minimum wage thresholds and increased employer National Insurance contributions, may be making it harder for businesses to hire young workers.

Business leader Sir Charlie Reed has put forward a series of proposals to tackle the issue. His plan includes a 'three-lane superhighway' for young people, offering clear routes into employment, apprenticeships, or university. He also calls for reforms to university courses, ensuring they better prepare graduates for the workplace.

Another key focus is removing obstacles to high-quality apprenticeships, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Reed emphasises the need to strengthen the transition from school directly into work. Meanwhile, arts charities are struggling with their own crisis—a combination of rising expenses, greater demand for services, and falling income.

Separately, former Prime Minister Gordon Brown has demanded an inquiry into whether Prince Andrew used taxpayer-funded jets and RAF bases to meet Jeffrey Epstein. The request adds to ongoing scrutiny of the royal's past associations.

The proposals aim to create clearer pathways for young people entering the workforce. Without intervention, those currently NEET face long-term employment disadvantages. The government and businesses will need to address both structural barriers and economic pressures to improve outcomes for this age group.